ST PATRICK’S College has appointed a new principal, who will take over the position following the retirement of Dr Peter Casey at the end of the year.
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The news was announced on Monday morning that John Crowley will take over the position, with the appointment made by Edmund Rice Education Australia.
Currently the principal at Ararat’s Marian College, Mr Crowley was previously deputy principal at Trinity College in Colac.
St Patrick’s College board chairman Andrew Byrne said Mr Crowley’s leadership at Marian College had resulted in dramatic improvement in its academic achievements.
“Marian College has undergone an exciting building program over the five years of John’s tenure, including the construction of a gymnasium and multi-purpose centre, a trade training centre and the acquisition of adjacent land,” Mr Byrne said.
“John has been innovative in his direction for the school in areas such as technology, curriculum planning and student motivation and engagement.”
Mr Crowley said he wanted to work at a school that carries that Edmund Rice tradition, working previously at schools in the group.
“The Edmund Rice tradition calls all members of the community to be inclusive, compassionate and work for justice for all,” Mr Crowley said.
Mr Crowley taught humanities, music and religious education before moving into education leadership about a decade ago.
Having lived in Ballarat for the past four years while working in Ararat, he looks forward to working closer to his family.
EREA executive director Wayne Tinsey said Mr Crowley was a very experienced leader in Catholic education in the Ballarat diocese.
Mr Tinsey said he was the former Principals’ Association of Victorian Catholic Secondary Schools chairman, a life member of the National Excellence in Teaching Awards Foundation and an active member of the St Columba’s Parish, Ballarat North.
“On behalf of all members of the Edmund Rice Education Australia community, I warmly congratulate John on this significant appointment and we look forward to welcoming John and his family into the St Patrick’s College community later in the year,” Mr Tinsey said.
Dr Peter Casey retires after 13 years as principal of St Patrick’s College at the end of the year.
nicole.cairns@fairfaxmedia.com.au